The Seine River has made a remarkable comeback, with swimming being allowed in designated areas for the first time in over a century. On Saturday, Parisians rejoiced as the French government opened three designated bathing sites along the iconic river, a promise kept following extensive clean-up efforts ahead of the upcoming Olympic Games.
On the banks of the Seine near the Eiffel Tower, eager swimmers dove into the water, delighted by the experience. The vibrant atmosphere was palpable as people splashed about joyfully, with one local, Martine Laupin, exclaiming, “What a joy. This is Paris. Imagine!” Swimming was banned in the Seine since 1923 due to pollution and safety concerns related to boat traffic.
Now, the revitalized river boasts clear, fresh water that beckons residents to enjoy the long-awaited return to this beloved pastime. Swim zones are carefully marked, ensuring safety while swimmers revel in the refreshing experience. A green flag waved nearby, signaling that the water quality was tested and found to be safe for swimming just hours before the opening.
Alongside the Seine's new swimming opportunities, two additional sites have opened in the nearby Marne River, expanding the options for aquatic fun in the Paris region. The initiative is a part of ongoing efforts to enhance the urban landscape and promote sustainability in Paris.
As locals embrace this opportunity for recreational enjoyment, the Seine, once a symbol of pollution, is transforming back into a favorite spot for relaxation and leisure, heralding a new chapter for the river and its community.
On the banks of the Seine near the Eiffel Tower, eager swimmers dove into the water, delighted by the experience. The vibrant atmosphere was palpable as people splashed about joyfully, with one local, Martine Laupin, exclaiming, “What a joy. This is Paris. Imagine!” Swimming was banned in the Seine since 1923 due to pollution and safety concerns related to boat traffic.
Now, the revitalized river boasts clear, fresh water that beckons residents to enjoy the long-awaited return to this beloved pastime. Swim zones are carefully marked, ensuring safety while swimmers revel in the refreshing experience. A green flag waved nearby, signaling that the water quality was tested and found to be safe for swimming just hours before the opening.
Alongside the Seine's new swimming opportunities, two additional sites have opened in the nearby Marne River, expanding the options for aquatic fun in the Paris region. The initiative is a part of ongoing efforts to enhance the urban landscape and promote sustainability in Paris.
As locals embrace this opportunity for recreational enjoyment, the Seine, once a symbol of pollution, is transforming back into a favorite spot for relaxation and leisure, heralding a new chapter for the river and its community.
